Asia Daily: November 6, 2023
News
Singapore Deputy PM Wong to Lead Ruling Party Before General Election, Prime Minister Says. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong of Singapore has declared that Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong will assume leadership of the ruling People's Action Party before the next general election, signaling a significant transition in the nation's political landscape. Wong, who has been pivotal in managing Singapore's COVID-19 response, is expected to step into the role of prime minister, continuing the party's longstanding governance since 1965. By Chen Lin for Reuters, Reuters, November 5
China Premier Li Seeks to Bolster His Country's Economic Outlook at Shanghai Trade Fair. Chinese Premier Li Qiang has committed to deepening reforms and expanding free trade zones to revitalize China's economy. Speaking at the China International Import Expo in Shanghai, Li emphasized the need for a more open market to foreign investment. Despite a slowdown in growth, China is taking steps to stimulate its economy, including infrastructure spending and easing restrictions on home-buying. The expo, initiated by President Xi Jinping, is part of China's strategy to promote its image as a proponent of free trade. Meanwhile, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's visit to the expo marks a step towards mending trade relations with China, aiming to address previous trade barriers that have impacted Australian exports. AP News, November 6
Estonia to Establish Taiwan Representative Office Amid China Policy Revision. Estonia has announced its decision to allow Taiwan to open a nondiplomatic representative office in the country, aiming to strengthen economic and cultural ties while maintaining the "One China" policy. This move, discussed during a Cabinet meeting focused on Estonia's China policy, aligns with the European Union's view of Beijing as a partner, competitor, and rival. Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna emphasized the importance of non-political relations with Taiwan in various sectors, despite not recognizing Taiwan as a sovereign state. The announcement precedes a visit by Taiwan's Foreign Minister Joseph Wu, who will engage in policy discussions but not official government meetings. AP News, November 4
Pakistani Troops Kill 9 Militants and Foil an Attack on an Airbase in Eastern Punjab Province. Pakistan's military successfully repelled an attack by militants on the Mianwali Training Air Base in eastern Punjab province, eliminating all nine attackers. The swift action of the troops ensured the safety of personnel and assets, although the skirmish resulted in damage to three aircraft and the destruction of a fuel tanker. This incident follows closely on the heels of other violent events in the country, including an ambush on a military convoy in Baluchistan province and a separate attack on police, highlighting the ongoing security challenges Pakistan faces, particularly from the Pakistani Taliban. AP News, November 4
China Urges Myanmar to Cooperate on Maintaining Stability on Border In the wake of increased conflict between Myanmar's junta forces and ethnic minority insurgents, China has called for cooperation with Myanmar to ensure stability along their shared border. The call for collaboration comes after a series of attacks by an alliance of ethnic armies seeking self-determination, which has caused disruptions in the region. China's emphasis on safeguarding the lives and property of its border residents and securing Chinese personnel underscores the urgency of the situation. The recent incidents, including the reported death of a Chinese citizen due to an errant shell, have heightened tensions. China's approach to the Myanmar conflict, advocating for dialogue and reconciliation, contrasts with Western sanctions and highlights the delicate balance in regional geopolitics. The Straits Times, November 6
Philippines' Marcos Jr. Orders Probe into Journalist's Killing. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered an investigation into the killing of broadcaster Juan Jumalon, alias "DJ Johnny Walker," who was shot live on air in his home studio. The incident, which also involved the theft of Jumalon's necklace, adds to the concerns over media safety in the Philippines, where journalist fatalities have been notably high. SCMP, November 5
Long Form
Will China Mediate the Israel-Hamas Conflict? China's stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict is complex, balancing condemnation of civilian attacks without assigning blame. While Beijing has shown sympathy toward Israel, it has not criticized Hamas, which it does not mention in official discourse. Similarly, China expresses solidarity with Palestinians and Arab countries, aligning against Washington's peace plan that excludes Palestinian fate. By Yun Sun, The Wire China, November 5
Cirrus Aircraft Soars Towards an IPO in Hong Kong. Cirrus Aircraft, renowned for its innovative personal aircraft, is navigating towards an initial public offering in Hong Kong, under the aegis of its Chinese state-owned enterprise owner. The company, a significant name in the niche general aviation sector in the U.S., is known for its advanced designs and emphasis on safety. This strategic move raises questions about Cirrus's future growth and the evolving landscape of aviation technology and ownership. By James Fallows, The Wire China, November 5
Chinese Tourists Aren't Coming Back Yet. Despite the global trend of "revenge travel" post-pandemic, Chinese tourists are not rushing abroad but are instead favoring domestic destinations. This shift is attributed to China's cautious reopening and a slow economic recovery, dampening the expected return of one of the world's largest groups of international spenders. Consultancy insights suggest that the anticipated immediate outbound surge was overestimated, as Chinese travelers show a preference for local, trendier, and more economical holiday options. By Rachel Cheung, The Wire China, November 5
Japan's New Security Aid Program Needs More Firepower Japan's foray into defense exports and security assistance is progressing, but the current scale and restrictions of its security aid program may be too limited to stimulate larger defense export deals. Rena Sasaki, a fellow with the Pacific Forum and a doctoral candidate at Johns Hopkins University, suggests that while Japan is making strides, the efforts may be insufficient to catalyze significant advancements in its defense export capabilities. By Rena Sasaki, Nikkei Asia, November 6
Unlearning the Lessons of East Asia's Economic Miracle The economic strategies that fueled the rapid growth of East Asia's 'miracle' economies are being reconsidered in light of new global market dynamics, particularly the push for decarbonization. Developing countries are urged to avoid the pitfalls of past industrial policies that focused on selecting industry champions, instead of creating public goods that lay the foundation for broad-based industrial growth. East Asia Forum, November 6